If you’ve just scheduled your COVID-19 vaccine in Tuscaloosa, or are thinking about making an appointment, there are a few steps you should take to prepare.
And don’t forget — while you may be getting the vaccine, it is still important to regularly wash your hands, wear a mask, and avoid crowded places where you may be exposed to the virus!
How to Prepare for Your COVID-19 Vaccine
Dr. Peramsetty and his team at Crimson Care have put together a short COVID-19 vaccine preparation checklist to ensure your vaccine appointment and recovery period goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Get the Vaccine As Soon As Possible
We recommend scheduling your vaccine appointment as early as possible and with any vaccine that is available to you. The CDC recommends three COVID-19 vaccines to those in Alabama: the Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Don’t wait to get vaccinated.
Furthermore, try not to schedule your appointment before a major event, such as an important meeting, exam, or family gathering. The COVID-19 vaccine may cause mild symptoms that can interfere with your plans.
2. Try to Avoid Steroids and Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Before your COVID-19 vaccine appointment in Tuscaloosa, try to avoid taking steroids or anti-inflammatory medication.
These may interfere with your body’s immune system response and dampen the vaccine’s effectiveness. Anti-inflammatory medication includes Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, and other NSAIDS.
However, if you have to take these for your health, Dr. Peramsetty says continue to do so.
3. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Your provider will need access to your upper arm to administer the vaccine. To ensure your appointment goes smoothly, wear loose-fitting clothing or a zip-up jacket that you can easily remove to expose your upper arm.
4. Optimally Fuel Your Body
Before your COVID-19 vaccine, make sure you optimally fuel your body with lots of water and nutritious foods. Some individuals tend to feel dizzy or lightheaded when receiving a shot. Hydration and food can help combat this.
5. Choose Your Vaccine Arm
One great way to prepare for your COVID-19 vaccine in Tuscaloosa is by choosing your vaccine arm ahead of time, especially if the clinic is extremely busy, as this will streamline your appointment. Make sure to choose your less dominant arm, as it will likely be sore the next day.
6. Take It Easy
Mild side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are common. These side effects may include fatigue, body aches, fever, chills, and headaches.
Dr. Peramsetty recommends taking it easy a day or two after receiving your COVID-19 vaccine, as you might not feel your best. Support your immune system and body by relaxing, reducing your stress levels, drinking plenty of water, and eating nutrient-dense foods.
In addition, make sure to get your groceries ahead of time. Stock up on the items you would usually get when sick, like soup, crackers, electrolyte drinks, and lots of fruits and veggies.
Schedule Your COVID-19 Vaccine in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
If you’ve not received your vaccine yet, please take the time to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment at Crimson Care. Dr. Peramsetty and his team are experienced in administering the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to the Tuscaloosa community. Learn more about the vaccine here and how to book your appointment.
Additional COVID-19 Services at Crimson Care
Whether you need to test for COVID-19, get vaccinated, or receive your COVID-19 booster shot, Dr. Peramsetty and his experienced team are here to help with COVID-19 services in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Use our online scheduling portal to book your appointment today! We’re currently offering the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to anyone 18 and older at our Crimson Care and First Care clinics.